Abstract: A mower apparatus includes multiple mowing sections each having a separate mower and each being interconnected with adjacent sections by hinge mechanisms. The mower sections are driven by a motor through a single endless belt reeved to be driven by the motor and to drive each of the mowers of the sections. The belt is configured in a unique manner such that as the belt crosses between adjacent hinged sections, the belt is run substantially parallel and in close proximity to the pivot axes of the hinge such that when the sections are pivoted relative to one another the belt does not substantially slacken or tighten.

Abstract: A connector seal is provided for the interposition between an access well, or hole, in a wall of a fluid containment apparatus and the other surface of a conduit, or pipe, passing through that hole to transport fluid to the container without leaking. The connector seal has as a main element a spring ring made from a resilient material such as carbon steel, alloy steel, or plastic, for delivering a radial static load to the connector seal upon its being exposed to compressive forces.

Abstract: A self-energizing pipe gasket includes a base and arm configuration projecting therefrom which cooperates with the base when pipe sections are assembled to cause the lip or sealing edge of the arm to kick away or distend towards the sealing surface of the pipe. To facilitate this action a harder insert is provided in the base in the form of a reinforcing ring providing a less compressible surface for the arm to react against. The ring also stiffens the gasket making it more difficult to dislodge upon assembly of the pipe sections enabling higher compression forces and assuring that the gasket does not go under or below the minimal compression requirements to form a sound flexible yet fluid tight seal. In one embodiment a raised portion of the arm is manufactured in contact with a surface of the base and in another embodiment the gasket includes two symmetrical arms each of which includes four surfaces.